Today we’ll be discussing “Tarot Emblemata: Decoding Magical Symbolism” by Nitasia Roland, a 78-card tarot deck that features an additional 5 oracle cards and guidebook. The striking image of the box was enough for me to request a review copy to share with you, and it did not disappoint.
The art for “Tarot Emblemata” is primarily sourced from Renaissance emblems attributed to the French artist Bernard Salomon, illustrated in Claude Paradin’s emblem book “Devises heroiques” in 1551. Many of these images are instantly recognizable, even though before now I never knew their source. The art creates impactful cards, however, as I mentioned when I reviewed “Wise Earth Medicine Tarot,” the art on the cards does not necessarily denote the card’s number. For instance, the Seven of Wands does not have seven of anything on it. Just as with the “Wise Earth Medicine Tarot,” this isn’t bad, but it could be a touch confusing for beginners.
What stood out for Roland was how many of the emblem’s mottos coincided with the traditional Rider Waite Smith Coleman card meanings. Using these mottos and the images, she started matching them up, ultimately creating “Tarot Emblemata.” After that, Roland added 5 oracular cards, with each aligning with the energy of the Archetypes of the Major Arcana and with the elemental energy of each suit.
Along with the deck comes a full color, 177-page, guidebook. It’s full of history and symbolism. It’s like a trade paperback for your deck!
“Tarot Emblemata” by Nitasia Roland is a truly unique deck in both design and art.
You can learn more here.
Get your own copy here. (This is an affiliate link to my Bookshop, which supports independent bookstores throughout the United States. If you use this link to purchase the book, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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